Thinking of giving your house a deep clean from top to bottom? A whole-home pressure wash might be exactly what you need. Whether you’re prepping for a home sale, recovering from a long winter, or just want to boost your curb appeal, this service can make your property look like new again. 🧼🏡✨
But if you’ve never hired a professional for a full-house wash, you might be wondering: What exactly does it include? How long does it take? And is it safe for your siding, windows, or landscaping?
Let’s walk through what to expect from start to finish when you hire a company for a whole-home pressure washing service — so you can go into it with confidence. ✅💦
🔍 What Does “Whole-Home” Pressure Washing Include?
When a company advertises full or whole-home pressure washing, it typically means a comprehensive exterior clean of the main house structure. This usually includes:
- 🧱 Siding (vinyl, brick, stucco, wood, etc.)
- 🪟 Exterior windows and frames
- 🏠 Eaves, soffits, and fascia boards
- 🪟 Gutters and downspouts (outside only)
- 🚪 Front entry, garage doors, porch areas
- 🪟 Shutters and trim
- 🪵 Decks or steps attached to the home (if requested)
Some companies may include driveways, sidewalks, or fencing in a bundle, but always ask for a breakdown of what’s covered in the base package vs. what’s considered an add-on. 💬
🧰 Step-by-Step: What Happens During the Service
Here’s what you can expect on the day of the service:
1. Arrival and Walkthrough 🚶♂️
The technician(s) will arrive at the scheduled time and often begin with a walkthrough of your property. They may point out areas of concern like:
- Mildew or algae buildup
- Delicate trim or aging wood
- Fragile window seals or exposed wiring
- Landscape that needs protection
This is also your opportunity to ask questions or request special attention to problem areas.
2. Surface Prep 🧴🌿
Before the washing begins, the crew will:
- Move or cover fragile items (e.g., plants, furniture, décor)
- Shut off outdoor electrical outlets or lights if needed
- Tape over locks, outlets, or door hardware
- Apply a pre-treatment solution to break down grime and mildew
Many companies now use eco-friendly detergents that are safe for plants and pets — ask if this is important to you. ♻️🐾
3. Soft Washing the Home 🧼🚿
Rather than blasting your home with high-pressure water, most pros will use a method called soft washing for residential structures. This involves:
- Low-pressure water (under 1,000 PSI)
- Specialized nozzles for wide spray patterns
- A mix of water and biodegradable cleaning agents
Soft washing is gentle on siding, windows, and paint — and far less likely to cause damage than traditional pressure washing.
4. Rinse and Spot Cleaning 💦🔍
After the detergent has broken down grime, the tech will perform a thorough rinse of all surfaces. If certain spots (like under eaves or around vents) need extra care, they’ll be cleaned by hand or with a focused nozzle.
You may also notice technicians cleaning in sections — working from the top of your home downwards to avoid streaking. This is a best practice and shows they’re doing things right. 👌
5. Post-Service Inspection 👀✅
After the work is complete, a good company will walk you around again and point out the results. If you spot anything missed, most are happy to touch it up on the spot.
Some also provide before-and-after photos — great for your records or marketing if you’re selling the home. 🏷️📸
⏱️ How Long Does It Take?
Time depends on the size of your home and any extras you’ve added. Here’s a rough guide:
- Small home (under 1,500 sq ft): 1–2 hours
- Medium home (1,500–2,500 sq ft): 2–3 hours
- Large home (2,500+ sq ft): 3–5 hours
This includes setup, washing, and cleanup — though more time may be needed for complex surfaces like stucco or detailed trim.
💵 What Does It Cost?
Prices vary by region, home size, and scope of work. Typical ranges:
- Basic house wash: $250–$600
- Add-ons (driveways, decks, windows, etc.): $50–$300 each
- Bundle packages may save you 10–20% on combined services
Be sure to ask if pricing is based on square footage, number of stories, or flat rate — and always request a written estimate. 📝
🧽 What You Can Do to Prepare
To help your pressure washing appointment go smoothly:
- Move vehicles from the driveway 🚗
- Unlock any gates or access points
- Remove décor, planters, or furniture near the home
- Keep pets inside and warn family members about slippery surfaces
- Close all windows tightly!
These small steps can save time and ensure you get the best results.
🏁 Final Thoughts
A whole-home pressure wash is one of the fastest, most affordable ways to refresh your property’s look and maintain its long-term value. Whether you’re getting ready to list, doing seasonal upkeep, or just want to love how your home looks, this service delivers visible results — fast. 💪🏠✨
The key is hiring the right company, knowing what’s included, and understanding the process. That way, you can sit back and enjoy the transformation while the pros do the dirty work.
